Seattle hearts Canada: American drives 7000 km to thank people of Gander

GANDER, NL - It took him 16 years and over 7,000 kilometres of driving, but Mark Ufkes has finally made it to Gander.

Ufkes, who lives in Seattle, Wash., arrived in town on Monday and met with Mayor Claude Elliott to share his gratitude for the role Gander played during 9-11.

“It was such a great statement of true humanitarianism,” Ufkes said.

Ufkes has been contemplating a road trip to Gander for years, but following a recent car accident, he decided it was time. He left his home in Seattle weeks ago.

“9-11 was such a difficult time for the American people. When the people of Canada were so generous and supportive, it was a wonderful example of humanity. It’s why the American people remember the story,” he said.

Although he wasn’t directly affected, Ufkes explained he was touched by the compassion that Ganderites showed towards complete strangers throughout 9-11.

SOUTHERN HARBOUR, N.L. — Imagine opening a cherished package — one that holds a special memory of an event that usually only happens once in a lifetime — only to find your special item is missing, and someone else’s treasure is in its place.